ISLAMABAD: While polio cases were frequently reported in the year 2024, the government has expressed optimism about interrupting the virus in the current year.

This commitment was made at a session with Technical Advisory Group (TAG) on Polio Eradication in Islamabad on Tuesday.

Stakeholders, including representatives from federal and provincial governments, partners and donor organisations attended the session.

The meeting was held at a pivotal time for Pakistan’s polio eradication efforts as the country intensifies its drive to overcome the remaining challenges in its fight against the crippling disease.

Prime Minister’s Coordinator on Health Dr Malik Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath at the meeting emphasised the government’s commitment to eradicating polio. He reiterated the dedication of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif who has declared polio eradication a national priority and consistently supports initiatives to strengthen routine immunisation and tackle immunity gaps in high-risk areas.

“We are resolute in our mission to rid Pakistan of polio once and for all. Despite challenges such as vaccine hesitancy, access issues and operational hurdles, our efforts are guided by a clear vision to protect every child in every corner of the country,” said Dr Bharath.

“The federal and provincial governments, alongside our partners, are working tirelessly to address gaps in immunisation, nutrition and hygiene. With strengthened cross-border collaboration with Afghanistan, enhanced environmental surveillance and increased resources, we are optimistic about interrupting virus transmission in 2025,” he added.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to the cause with Dr Bharath expressing confidence in the continued support of global partners and donors.

Pakistan reported 73 polio cases last year with the virus detected in around 90 districts.

Polio is a paralysing disease that has no cure. Multiple doses of the oral polio vaccine and completion of the routine vaccination schedule for all children under the age of five are essential to provide children high immunity against this terrible disease.

The Pakistan Polio Programme conducts multiple mass vaccination drives in a year, bringing the vaccine to children at their doorsteps while the Expanded Program on Immunisation provides vaccinations against 12 childhood disease free of charge at health facilities.

The year’s first polio vaccination campaign is scheduled to be conducted nationwide from February 3 to 9. It is crucial for parents to ensure vaccination for all their children under the age of five to keep them protected.

Published in Dawn, January 22nd, 2025